Missing boy, 8, rescued in Quiapo

MANILA, Philippines – An eight-year-old boy who has been missing for a month was rescued yesterday after he was found begging in Quiapo, Manila.

The boy’s father said his son disappeared in Cubao, Quezon City on Nov. 13. He sought police assistance when a family friend told him he saw his son begging near the Quiapo Church.

The boy said he was forced to beg along with other children by a man who said they needed to save money for their fare to Pampanga.

Police arrested a certain Noel de Leon during a follow-up operation.

Police said gangs are behind the proliferation of street children and beggars in the streets of Manila, especially during the Christmas season.

A street vendor told The STAR a certain Empoy and Caring are “taking care” of children who jump onto passenger jeepneys to beg.

A source said the gang supplies solvent for the children to sniff before sending them out to beg.